Page 26 of Sparks Fly
“I’m gonna go. I want to get dressed and head out for the day.”
“Meeting Rue?” Her voice is a little snarky and my lips twist.
“Don’t be jealous, Nora. It doesn’t suit you.” A soft laugh bubbles out of me and she cuts me off instantly which only makes me laugh harder.
Moving from the bed, I reach for my clothes and pad into the en-suite, showering myself and getting dressed.
Sitting on my bed, I pull out my compact and put a little make-up on before rubbing my lips with a pink lip gloss.
I am dressed in a stone-coloured waistcoat and matching shorts, finished off with black Hermes sandals. My hair is in a slicked back pony which I finish off with a small black bow. Spraying my perfume, I fumble around in my small jewellery bag to find my gold hoops and gold necklace. A pang of sadness shoots through me at the dainty necklace I pull out, Royce’s number dangling from it.
I swallow down the tears that are threatening. Shoving the necklace back in the bag, I pull out another gold necklace, with a small seashell that dangles, and I clasp it on.
I sigh, as I turn and look at the mess that is my room and start packing bits away and into my suitcase, so I am ready tomove when I need to. Living out a suitcase is not ideal, but I don’t really want to stay here any longer than I need too.
Pulling the door, I scope the open plan living room and relief swarms me that he isn’t here. I step out as I move towards the kitchen and turn the coffee machine on. It makes a noise and then trickles out into a mug.
I tap my foot on the floor, and I feel slightly impatient. Turning, I see that it is done, so I scoop it up and bring it to my nose. I inhale heavily before I reach for the milk and top it up with two sugars. I take a mouthful and hum in appreciation. Snapping a selfie of me and my coffee, I post it to my stories and then text Rue to see if I can hang with her today, to which she replies instantly telling me to head over when I am ready.
Sipping my coffee, I walk across the penthouse and stand at the floor to ceiling windows, my mind drifting to what Royce may or may not be doing. I hated that he was on my mind, hated that he hurt me, but I kind of admire him for breaking up with me for the reason he did. I knew he wanted the world championship, they all did, but Royce was so hungry for it. He lived and breathed his career and to be that passionate about your job, well, not many people get that in their lifetime.
“Didn’t expect you to still be here.” Creed’s voice floats across the apartment and I find myself glancing at him over my shoulder.
“I could have said the same.” I flick my eyes up and down over him. He’s dressed in stone linen trousers and a black tee. I hate to admit, but he looks good.
“Looks like we matched on purpose.” He winks as he walks over to the coffee machine.
I ignore him and go back to looking out the window whilst I finish my drink. Licking my lips, I walk back towards the kitchen and place my cup in the dishwasher, then scoop my bag from the coffee table, with my vlogging bits and camera tucked inside.
“Bad news.” I wince as his eyes trail me.
“What’s that?” His brow raises.
“Nora can’t get me into a new apartment until next week.” I pause, hooking my fingers together. “So my options?—”
“Stay here, it’s fine. I’ll keep the spare; it’s only a bed.”
I blink at him.
“You were here first, and you didn’t know.” He shrugs one shoulder up. “It’s no big deal.”
I roll my lips. “Are you sure?” My voice is small.
“Yes.” His tone is curt as he drains the last of his coffee and then places his mug alongside mine the dishwasher.
“Well, thank you.” My cheeks turn pink. “It’ll only be a few more days.” I give him a wide smile.
“You may as well stay here, I fly home in a week.”
Shaking my head as my fingers grip around the strap of my tanned bag, I say, “I can’t do that. Honestly, you’ve been kind enough to let me crash here an extra few nights.” I force a smile.
“You’ve paid for it, I don’t want you paying twice.”
I wince, looking away momentarily.
“Actually.” My eyes flit to him. “You, well, Saint Onyx, paid for it.”
Creed lifts his chin. “I see.” He rubs his hand over his lips and my heart is drumming in my chest.
